Whether you go out for a hike, a hunt, fishing or camping, the cooler weather is comfortable for activity and perfect for evening campfires.

Each year, a variety of new outdoors equipments or upgrades to current lines are released in anticipation of the fall outdoors season. Below are some of the best and most useful items that have come cross this desk.

ELECTRONICS All kinds of electronics gear are grabbing attention for outdoorsmen and women. GPS units are one of the must-have toys for many outdoorsy types. Magellan’s new generation of its eXplorist handheld GPS devices will be released in October. The eXplorist 510, 610, and each features 3.0-inch color touch screen, a 3.2 mega-pixel camera with auto-focus, microphone and speaker, which allow adventure enthusiasts to navigate to outdoor destinations worldwide, record geo-referenced images, videos, voice notes, and share their experiences online.

Bushnell revolutionized GPS technology by making it simple for everyone to use with the popular BackTrack. The BackTrack allows you to set a location you want to get back to with a press of a button. Simply follow the arrow and the distance shown so you never have to worry about getting lost again. For 2010 they have introduced two new BackTrack models to the market with a greater host of features, while maintaining the simple operation of the original model.

The new BackTrack Point 3 and Point 5 models are compact and lightweight. The Point 5 has a carabiner clip and the Point 3 comes with a key ring to make it easy to secure them to a backpack, purse, belt loop or any attachment point.

Both models feature improved screen graphics and have the latest in GPS technology for quick satellite acquisition and enhanced signal sensitivity so users can quickly mark a location or take a compass reading. Like the original BackTrack, the Point 3 allows users to mark up to three separate locations or waypoints. In compass mode the arrow points north and displays the direction you are facing in degrees. The BackTrack Point 5 can store up to five separate locations. It has an integrated digital compass that resembles an actual compass. The Point 5 also includes latitude and longitude coordinates when in compass mode. It displays time, temperature and altitude as well, giving the user a wealth of valuable information for their hike or trip. Both units display an arrow pointing in the direction of the marked waypoint with the distance to the destination. They have a backlit screen feature for low light conditions. The auto off feature turns the units off 5 minutes after the last button is pushed to conserve battery life. Measurement readings can be changed from U.S. to metric and the clock on the Point 5 can be set for civilian or military time. The BackTrack Point 3 sells for a suggested retail price of $69.99 and the Point 5 for $89.99. For more information on Bushnell Products visit www.bushnell.com or call 800-423-3537 for consumer inquiries. For smartphone and iPhone users, two new HuntMate apps are like having extra ammunition with the latest weather data, hunting data, best feeding times of game and more, whether locally or across the globe, all for as little as $9.99. For more information go to: www.huntmateapp.com

Magellan is also in the protection market for smartphones and iPhones.Magellan’s ToughCase is a refined yet rugged protective case, giving iPhone and iPod touch waterproof capabilities, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and outdoor professionals. Available worldwide, featuring built-in GPS, ToughCase enhances the accuracy of location-based and GPS applications for iPhone 3G and iPod touch, while protecting the device and providing unmatched accessibility to all iPhone and iPod touch features. “The ToughCase is the ideal solution for all outdoor users. From kayakers to golfers, mountain bikers to construction workers, it provides a level of protection and performance previously unavailable in other cases,” said Justin Doucette, Director of Product Marketing for Magellan GPS. “The ToughCase protects against harmful elements such as dust, rain, mud, water and snow.” The unique case design allows 100 percent access to Apple’s revolutionary Multi-Touch user interface, allowing users to receive and place calls while the device is protected. The ToughCase meets IPX-7 waterproof standards, enabling the device to be submerged at a depth of 1-meter for up to 30 minutes. The integrated 1840 mAh battery will double the life of the device based on normal usage and the built-in high sensitivity SiRFstar III GPS chipset delivers up to 3 meters of accuracy. The ToughCase is compatible with iPhone 3G, iPhone 3GS and iPod touch (second and third generation). The ToughCase is available at MagellanGPS.com and Apple Stores at www.apple.com. ToughCase extends Magellan’s comprehensive solutions for iPhone and iPod touch, which include the Magellan RoadMate turn-by-turn navigation app and the Magellan Premium Car Kit - an innovative 3-in-1 vehicle mount for the iPhone 3GS, iPhone 3G and second and third generation iPod touch enhancing their performance as a hands-free navigation solution. The Magellan RoadMate turn-by-turn navigation app is available for $49.99 from the App Store on iPhone and iPod touch or at www.itunes.com/appstore/. With all this electronic gear, maintaining power can be a problem, but the Powermonkey-eXplorer can give your electronic equipment a jolt on the go.

Making sure you have enough battery power will never be a problem again with the Powermonkey-eXplorer that can be charged from an outlet or the unit's solar panels. I used the Powermonkey while on vacation at Assateague in Maryland and never lost power from my ancient iPod.

Whether you are backpacking or just forgot your charger at home, there is nothing more frustrating than listening to a mobile device beep at you or flash a warning icon as it loses batter power and shuts down. The Powermonkey has been created as a solution, providing mobile phones, digital cameras, iPods, MP3/MP4 players, PDAs and portable games consoles with an everlasting charge. The Powermonkey-eXplorer is capable of holding enough power to provide an additional 96 hours of standby time on mobile phones, 40 hours of playtime for iPods, 5 hours on games console, 48 usage hours on PDAs and 6 hours on MP3 or MP4 players. Equipped with compact solar panels, the Powermonkey-eXplorer can also be used to charge your devices directly from the sun. Featuring an LCD screen that displays battery capacity and the level of charge, the powermonkey-eXplorer also has short-circuit protection, over-charging protection and anti-discharging protection. The exterior shell of the Powermonkey-eXplorer is made of rubberized casing to protect it from nicks and dings even in the roughest situations. Designed for lightweight versatility, the Powermonkey-eXplorer is water resistant and comes with an included Velcro strap so it can be attached for sun exposure on a backpack to charge devices while you are on the go. Each powermonkey-eXplorer kit contains:• 1 x powermonkey-eXplorer portable charger• 1 x solarmonkey portable solar charger• 1 x universal mains charger which will work in over 150 countries and has interchangeable heads for UK, Europe, US & Australia• Tips for: Nokia and mini Nokia, Retractable USB cable, Micro USB, Mini USB, Samsung G600, iPod / iPhone tip, LG Chocolate, Sony Ericsson wide connector, Female USB, DC4.0 for Sony PSP• 1 x Storage case• 1 x User guide

People who want to video their outdoor adventures but don’t feel like grabbing a camera may be intrigued (and delighted) by a new offering from Hunter’s Specialties, which acquired the rights to Hunter's Specialties® has acquired the exclusive rights to i-Kam Xtreme™. i-Kam Xtreme incorporates an advanced mobile video recorder into a lightweight pair of glasses. Whether it's your children's latest ball game, a downhill ski run, a fishing trip, or your last hunt, now outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds have a hands-free way to record what they see and play it back for future enjoyment.

i-Kam Xtreme offers completely wireless operation, with no cords or battery packs required. It has a digital camera incorporated into the frame with 4GB of built-in memory for up to 3 hours of recording. The glasses will also accept a Micro SD card for an additional 8 GB of memory. The integral microphone captures all the sounds to go along with the video. The glasses can be hooked directly to a PC with the supplied USB cable to view the video, or when using the Micro SD card, it can be inserted into a card reader to watch footage. Each pair of i-Kam Xtreme glasses comes with four interchangeable lenses in smoke, brown, yellow and clear to use in all lighting conditions. Frames are available in both glossy and flat black, RealTree camouflage and white. A hard bodied carrying case, cleaning cloth, AC adapter and instruction manual are also included. "At Hunter's Specialties we're always looking for exciting new products that feature cutting edge technology to add to our line," said David Forbes, Hunter's Specialties Co-CEO. "When we saw the quality of the video being shot by these glasses and the number of great applications for hunters and other outdoor enthusiasts, we knew this was a product worthy of our name." For more information about other Hunter's Specialties products, log onto the Hunter's Specialties website at www.hunterspec.com. SHINE LIGHT Flashlights are always huge with outdoor enthusiasts.Browning continues to expand its line of high quality feature-filled line of flashlights for the serious sportsman with the addition of the powerful new Hi Power line. The powerful new Hi Power line of flashlights blend innovative technology with striking appearance and the ability to squeeze every last drop of energy from a pair of AA alkaline batteries. The Browning Hi Power flashlights feature all-aluminum construction with walnut or black resin inlays. The bulbs are the latest generation Cree® XPE LED that is rated for 50,000 hours of use. Length is 5.25", brightness is 145 lumens and effective distance is 150 meters. The Hi Power's leading edge circuitry provides the brightest AA-powered LED flashlights available. Five Hi Power models are offered in Matte Silver, Desert Metallic, Black and Mossy Oak New Break-up. One Black model will also feature the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation logo. Suggested Retail for all models is $79.95.

HUNTINGClothing Hunters have plenty of options for fall hunting from camouflage patterns to different garment weights and breathability factors.Cabela’s makes some outstanding, reasonably priced outer wear that is moisture-wicking for those walks into your tree stands during the early fall. The Big Game Henley Hunt Tech is breathable enough for rugged walks into the woods and sometimes toasty early season afternoons, yet warm enough for the chilly fall mornings. Couple that with the matching pants that feature two front pockets, two back pockets and two cargo leg pocket and you can carry almsot everything you need into the woods without a backpack. Hunters are looking for new gear to improve their performance in the field. Just in time for the new season, Sitka Gear with GORE® OPTIFADE™ Forest Pattern is now available at select retailers throughout the country, including the Cabela’s in Hamburg. The gear features the one of a kind Optifade Forest pattern, which is optimized for whitetail deer hunting in tree stands. Whereas all other forms of camouflage are based on how humans see, the Optifade pattern was the first to be developed taking animal vision into account. This means that the camouflage not only allows the hunter to blend into the deer’s perception of the environment but also breaks up the symmetry of the human body so that it is impossible for the animal to recognize the hunter as a predator. In addition to this state of the art technology, the gear includes advanced technical fabrics for warmth and protection from the elements as well as GORE-TEX® waterproof breathable fabric, among other great features. Sitka Gear has launched its most recent web initiative, the Sitka System Builder http://www.sitkagear.com/system-generator.aspx . This online application is designed to take the guess work out of choosing the right layering system for hunters in any given condition.“Proper layering is the key to staying comfortable, and ultimately staying on the stand longer” stated Sitka Founder Jonathan Hart. “We developed the Sitka System Builder to help customers choose the appropriate layers based on their individual hunting situation.” The Sitka System Builder allows consumers to control and change a number of variables, including the game they pursue, the season and the type of terrain they are hunting in. The builder will then identify the proper gear to maximize your comfort, and ultimately your hunting experience. To experience the System Builder first hand visit http://www.sitkagear.com/system-generator.aspx “The most frequent question we get from customers is “what is the right system for me?”” stated Kevin King of Sitka Gear. “The System Builder helps hunters answer this question and properly build the best system based on their unique hunting style and environment.” Rocky (www.rockyboots.com) has a some new items in its apparel line. The ROCKY Pro Hunter collection gives outdoorsman the perfect weapon for defeating the elements. ROCKY apparel designers completely reinvented the Pro Hunter collection for 2010, adding sophisticated athletic styling.

Available in a parka and bib - with or without insulation and always dependably waterproof - the Pro Hunter series for men and children will stand up to the test of heavy rain and snow without breaking your budget.

The Pro Hunter collection will be available in the new Mossy Oak Break-Up® Infinity™ pattern. Featuring unprecedented depth, unequalled detail and elements with remarkable contrast, Break-Up Infinity truly offers hunters another dimension in camo.

The ROCKY Combo Fleece jacket, also with a vest option, combines a hunter's favorite features in gear: versatility and fleece. The Combo Fleece jacket is perfect for layering all seasons in any weather condition.

The ROCKY Combo Fleece jacket is part of the SilentHunter Collection.ScentBlocker also has a great new jacket. When temperatures plunge, our 4WD™ Glacier® spotlights on one simple function: warming your core without added bulk. The 4WD™ Glacier® Vest provides astonishing warmth with low-bulk, hydrophobic, highly compressible Thermore® insulation, which traps heat with remarkable efficiency.

The outer shell of this garment has been peached, giving it a non-glistening, matte finish that is soft and quiet, unlike many other down or synthetic garments, which are slippery, shiny and noisy. The outer shell is treated with DWR, Durable Water Repellency, which forces water to bead up on the outer shell while our 4WD™ technology protects you from four of nature's ruthless elements; wind, rain, sleet and snow utilizing our integrated RainBlocker® waterproof membrane. Scent Shield's 4WD™ Glacier® Vest was developed to coincide with multiple garments throughout the System Layers. The 4WD™ Glacier® Vest is a component of System Layer 2 for increased warmth and protection against the elements.

Headwear is critical for all hunters. Buff, Inc., (www.buff.us) has released its new Mossy Oak® Collection for hunting adventurers. The all-season Original Buff® and cold weather Polar Buff® now have been designed to match the elements in the new Mossy Oak® collection. "We are thrilled to partner with Mossy Oak®," said Shirley Choi Brunetti, general manager and vice president, United States. "Just about every market has adopted the versatility, functionality and protection of Buff® headwear, and the hunting market is no exception. We knew there was high demand among hunters, and we felt that now was an opportune time to partner with Mossy Oak®." The Mossy Oak® Buff® collection will include the Mossy Oak® Original Buff® in four SKUs for $22/each, and the Mossy Oak® Polar Buff® with Mossy Oak® printed fleece in three SKUs for $32/each. Each will feature natural elements digitized into the fabric, and will be available in a number of Mossy Oak®'s most popular patterns including Break-Up® Infinity™, Treestand®, Duck Blind®, and Obsession® (available in the Original Buff® only).

BACKPACKS AND CAMPINGWaterfowl hunters typically carry a lot of gear into the field when they head out for the day. Keeping everything organized and accessible is always a problem.

With the new Final Approach medium backpack hunters get an extremely well built multi-purpose bag. The backpack has both main and secondary compartments that measure 18"H x 15"W x 5"D. A third outside compartment measures 16"H x 12.5"W x 2"D.

The Final Approach Hunter's Backpack has a padded waist belt, vented back and non-slip ergonomically designed shoulder straps that make carrying a heavy load cool and comfortable. It is at home not only in the field, but traveling through the airport as well.

The Hunter's Backpack is available in both Mossy Oak® Duck Blind™ and RealTree® Max-4™ camo patterns. For more information, visit www.fabrand.com or call consumer inquiries at 800-423-3537.

For backpackers, High Peak USA has outdone itself once again with its new Everest line. Planning for a backpacking or camping trip can often take longer than the trip itself. Once you determine weather conditions, water availability and decide exactly what food and gear you need to bring, you then must face the obstacle of how to pack it.

High Peak USA is transforming backpacks from rustic carry-alls to high-tech pieces of machinery meant to enhance your experience on the trail. High Peak’s new ‘Everest’ line eliminates the hassle of trying to decide exactly how to position your tent, clothes, first aid kit, food and other supplies in your backpack. The days wasting time blindly feeling around in the bottom of your bag for the item you need are long gone.

The ‘Everest’ line backpacks provide access not only from the top; they also allow easy access to gear from the front and bottom as well depending on the model. The ‘Everest’ line features 3 unisex models ranging in capacity from 75 + 10 cubic inches to 60 + 10 cubic inches and one pack specially designed for a woman’s figure with a carrying capacity of 50 + 10 cubic inches. Each ‘Everest’ backpack is also designed with an internal back panel micro-adjustment system that allows users to adjust the pack length from sizes small to extra large.

A bivy sack is a versatile addition to any outdoor lover’s gear list. The Brooks-Range Alpini Bivy Sack is ultralight (15 oz.), made of waterproof/breathable ripstop outer fabric (designed exclusively for Brooks-Range products). The floor is completely waterproof, and a short zip simplifies entry, along with a deep cowl-cover over the head and an elastic drawcord closure.The Brooks-Range Alpini Bivy packs to the size of a half liter bottle. Made in the USA, the bivy measures 42” x 98” and comes in red, blue and yellow. The bivy can be used alone or can accommodate most standard length sleeping bags, depending on the weather.

Even if you're traveling with a tent, the bivy ssvk adds a layer of protection against dampness.

GADGETS

There is nothing more inconvenient when trying to start a fire than watching the initial flame sputter and lose life. Whether it is due to damp conditions, elevation or inclement weather and you need a fire to stay warm, cook a meal or signal for help having the right tools can make all the difference. Originally created for the Swedish Department of Defense, the Swedish FireSteel’s dependability has made it the favorite of survival experts, hunters, fishermen and campers alike.

The new Swedish FireSteel 2.0 has been redesigned with an improved striker that makes it even easier to build a fire in any weather, at any altitude. It also incorporates a loud signal whistle in the handle, useful for signaling or in any emergency. Finally, Firesteel 2.0 has an ergonomic handle that makes it easier to use correctly the first time. With a 3,000 degree Celsius spark, the Swedish FireSteel 2.0 is available in two models. The Scout model features a striking surface enabled to create 3,000 sparks, while the Army model lasts up to 12,000 strikes. Electronic gear keeps us connected and entertained, but there are many times when we cannot bring our favorite gadget with us for fear that if we do it may never power up again. Seattle Sports, a leader in designing and manufacturing high-quality outdoor gear, has created a solution – DryDocs, a line of waterproof cases for cell phones, cameras, MP3 players, laptop computers, e-readers, iPads, important documents and more.

By storing each gadget in a DryDocs case you can ensure that sand, snow and water are kept away from sensitive electronic circuits. DryDocs cases are designed to allow you to continue to use your devices while keeping them safe and protected. The variety of cases feature handles for easy gripping and have safety lanyards so you can attach your gear to your backpack, coat or belt loop for safekeeping. DryDocs cases are available in a variety of sizes and designs to fit all electronic devices. Built with a thick, eco-friendly PVC-Free film, DryDocs are puncture and slash proof. A positive-snap Ziploc type closure also makes them easy to use. Let me know if you would be interested in learning more about the different DryDocs products and potentially giving one a try.

LINAMENT

Like me, millions of Americans suffer from muscle and joint pain every day. No one knows this better than athletes who are especially affected by muscle or joint aches and pains. Now there is some good news for those athletes suffering from such pain. The wildly successful Elmore Oil that has swept across Australia is now making a splash here state-side. Elmore Oil is so effective that it is actually the preferred method of treatment for joint and muscle pain for many Australian Olympians. Elmore Oil is unique because of the four natural ingredients that make up the oil: Olive Oil, Tea Tree Oil, Eucalyptus Oil and Vanilla. The secret to this Oil's success has to do with the way its ingredients are mixed. The ingredients are specially matured over time which allows the ingredients to bind in the most effective and efficient way possible.

I used this before bedtime on my aching big toe joint and the area in my back where I get back spasms and found releif in the morning.

PETS

If you're like me when you walk your dog, you correcly use your left arm to control the leash. For me, this has also meant nearly getting my left elbow snapped off when Spencer or Sherlock decided to bolt after a squirrel or rabbit while on a walk.

The Perfect Leash is “perfect” for any dog owner and dog’s alike! Made out of proprietary polyurethane – The Perfect Leash eliminates tension on both the dog’s neck as well as the walker’s arm, and even returns to its original shape even after the dog has tried to make a run for iot. It's a bungee cord leash!

Not only does it fit nicely to your hand but it really does help alleviate tension when all your dog wants to do is pull and pull and pull! The leash or the heeler is perfect for training. Best of all, it's made in nearby Orwigsburg. It's available from Justy Ducky brands.

Great to hear Elmore Oil is available in the USA. My grandfather experienced a lot of relief from arthritis using this oil. It warms so well I wondered when we'd be able to get it here.

Posted By: JJ | Sep 30, 2010 8:17:04 PM

I enjoyed this blog about so many great things useful for backpacking. I noticed you didn't mention much about hiking boots. I just bought a new pair of Merrell's and love'em. I have owned every brand possible from Vasque, Lowe's, etc. but I like these best.

I can also speak highly of Dry Docs to keep your stuff dry. I used to use one for my camera until I bought a waterproof camera, then I didn't have to worry about it anymore. I still recommend them for phones though.